David Lammy has declared that a "stable Syria is in the UK's interests" as Britain re-established diplomatic relations with the Middle Eastern nation. The Foreign Secretary made the historic visit to Damascus, becoming the first UK minister to set foot in the country for 14 years.
Lammy met with President Ahmed Al-Sharaa and foreign minister Asaad al-Shaibani during his groundbreaking trip. The Assad regime collapsed in December last year after rebels led by proscribed group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) stormed the capital Damascus, forcing the then-president to flee after 24 years in power.
£94.5 million humanitarian package announced
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office announced £94.5 million for humanitarian aid for Syrians alongside the diplomatic breakthrough. Lammy said he had witnessed "first-hand the remarkable progress Syrians have made in rebuilding their lives and their country" during his visit.
"After over a decade of conflict, there is renewed hope for the Syrian people," the Foreign Secretary said. "The UK is re-establishing diplomatic relations because it is in our interests to support the new government to deliver their commitment to build a stable, more secure and prosperous future for all Syrians."
UK cites migration and security concerns
Lammy outlined several key British interests in Syrian stability, including reducing the risk of irregular migration and ensuring the destruction of chemical weapons. He also cited tackling the threat of terrorism and delivering the Government's plan for change as crucial factors in the decision.
In April, the UK lifted a raft of sanctions against Syria that had been imposed under the Assad regime, including those on the interior and defence ministries. The Syrian president's office said on Saturday that the president and Lammy discussed cooperation, as well as the latest developments in the Middle East.
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
